Dark patches are an extremely common problem among men and women throughout the world. However, in India, this issue is much more prevalent and this has resulted in more and more people suffering from this problem. Healthmeup Expert Dr Kiran Lohia sites different causes of pigmentation and ways one can avoid getting it.

Cause #1: Sun Exposure

The sun is the number one cause of dark patches. Sunlight comprises both UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause tanning and sunburns, while UVA rays cause pigmentation problems, patches, sunspots and even aging! In India, we are closer to the equator, and hence we receive direct sunrays, compared to Western nations. Furthermore, the pollution in India erodes the atmosphere’s protection from harmful UV light, making our sun exposure even worse. Additionally, most people in India are not aware that UV light penetrates through windows, clouds and rain, so they tend not to wear sun protection during these times.

The most important thing to do is to practice sun avoidance and wear sun protection. The hours of 10AM to 3PM are when the sun is at its strongest, making it the worst time to be outside. So, try to do your errands either in the late afternoon or early morning. Sun protection is also extremely important. In fact, recent data has proven that aggressive sunblock usage can even prevent the appearance of aging! Remember to wear sunblock every 3-4 hours and apply it at least 30 minutes before going outside. Also, look for both UVA and UVB blocking of at least SPF30++ to get the best sun protection.

Cause #2: Scarring

Scarring or Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation is the second most common cause of dark marks. Typically, any injury, burn or pimple can cause a subsequent mark that can ruin your complexion! This typically occurs because the healing process also causes some inflammation, resulting in your pigment producing cells to become more active. To avoid this, go to a skin doctor the moment any of these conditions occur so they can reduce the risk of marks while also treating them.

Cause #3: Eczema and Other Rashes

Eczema and itchy rashes are very common in India, and can often cause darkening, secondary to scratching and inflammation. In fact, in eczema, it is common to see something called “lichenification,” where the skin becomes extremely dark and thick, like a tree trunk due to excess scratching. To get rid of this darkening, it is important to see a dermatologist who will treat the eczema, which will help get rid of the darkened skin.

Cause #4: Freckles

Freckles are very common, and are typically present at birth or a young age. They are primarily genetic, although the sun can increase the number of freckles present! Sun avoidance and protection is important, but typically freckles are hard to treat. Currently, new lasers such as the Q-switched Nd:Yag laser are being used to get rid of freckles quickly and effectively!

Medications

Certain medications have a risk of causing pigmentation, such as estrogen, tetracyclines, amiodorone, phenytoin and more! However, this risk is very small, so most doctors can still prescribe these medications, as they are very effective for the diseases they treat. However, if all of a sudden you develop pigmentation, you should see your doctor immediately, so he or she can change it to an alternative! Then, go to your dermatologist who will treat those dark patches.

Cause #6: Photosensitive Ingredients

Many of us love applying home packs, fragrances, mustard oil and other ingredients on ourselves to beautify ourselves. However, we should be aware that some ingredients react with the sun, causing pigmentation! There are many types of pigmentation, which can occur from this, but one rare type is called Riehl’s melanosis, and results in a deep darkening on the areas where the ingredient is applied and sun exposure has occurred! This type of pigmentation is very hard to treat unfortunately. Common ingredients in your skin care to avoid are lemon oil, mustard oil, lime, lemongrass, cinnamon and papaya.

Cause #7: Diabetes

Excess weight gain is known to predispose you to diabetes. It is this predisposition that can cause a velvety hyperpigmentation on the back of the neck, the armpits, the groin and other areas known as Acanthosis Nigricans. This darkening is very common, and is the first sign that you have a higher risk of getting this disease! Now, to treat this darkening, your dermatologist will advise you to lose weight, and also to apply products containing Alpha-Hydroxy Acids or Retinoids. Chemical peels and lasers can also work to get rid of this pigmentation, but the most important step to undertake is weight loss so that these patches do not return.

Cause #8: Hormones

Hormones are a known cause of dark patches on the face, known as melasma or chloasma. This typically happens in pregnant women, but can occur at any other time or to men as well! Typically, the circulating hormones make some people more sensitive to the sun resulting in these dark areas. Treatment is typically undertaken by a dermatologist who will prescribe alpha-hydroxy acids, hydroquinone, retinoids, or other medications to help get rid of those marks.

Cause #9: Diseases

Certain diseases such as Addison’s disease, Hemachromatosis and more can cause a diffuse pigmentation all over the body and even inside the mouth! That is why when you start getting pigmentation, you need to immediately consult a dermatologist who can help diagnose your disease and get you the treatment you need.

Cause #10: Idiopathic

Unfortunately, not all dark patches can be explained. There are many diseases that can occur for no reason at all that can cause pigmentation such as erythema dyschromicum perstans, lichen planus pigmentosus and more. However, these diseases are treatable, so when you start getting those dark patches, make sure your first decision is to visit a dermatologist.

Dark patches are an extremely common problem among men and women throughout the world. However, in India, this issue is much more prevalent and this has resulted in more and more people suffering from this problem. Healthmeup Expert Dr Kiran Lohia sites different causes of pigmentation and ways one can avoid getting it.